Of all the people attending Hugo Chavez's funeral Friday in Caracas, Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. is among them.
The father of disgraced former Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. confirmed his attendance on Twitter. He reportedly arrived Thursday night in Venezuela and will lead a delegation organized by his Rainbow/PUSH Coalition.
Rev. Jackson told Fox News he knew the Venezuelan president "in a direct and personal way" and says he is "deeply saddened by his passing." Chavez presented Jackson with the Liberator's Award in 2005.
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On Friday morning, Jackson posted this on Facebook:
"I extend my deepest condolences to his family and along with people around the globe, am deeply saddened by his passing. During this sad and difficult moment in the lives of all those affected by this unfortunate news, we most always remember that God is our refuge and strength. I join the people of Venezuela, especially the family and friends of President Chavez, in mourning this global leader."
Chavez died Tuesday at age 58 after a two-year battle with cancer.
More than 30 heads of government are scheduled to attend the funeral, including U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks from New York Democrat and former Rep. William Delahunt from Massachusetts.
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